This week, I sit down with Ted Blickwedel, a retired Marine Corps Lieutenant Colonel, combat veteran, and Licensed Clinical Social Worker, who risked everything to expose critical issues within the Veterans Affairs (VA) system. Ted’s journey began at the VA VET Center in Warwick, RI, where he provided mental health care to fellow veterans from 2009 to 2018. In 2017, he witnessed how harmful clinical productivity policies were jeopardizing the well-being of counselors and the quality of care for veterans. When his concerns were repeatedly dismissed by supervisors, Ted decided to speak out, initiating a whistleblowing campaign that came at a tremendous personal cost. His efforts led to a federal investigation by the Government Accountability Office (GAO), which substantiated his claims and ultimately sparked legislative reforms signed into law. In this episode, we dive deep into: • Why Ted chose to expose these issues despite the risks. • The legal, financial, and health challenges he faced as a whistleblower. • The impact of his advocacy on veterans, counselors, and VA leadership nationwide. • His book, Broken Promises, which chronicles the injustices and retaliation he endured while fighting for change. Ted’s story, featured on NBC, NPR, and the Military Times, is a powerful testament to courage, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of justice. Tune in to hear how one man’s unwavering commitment to veterans reshaped a broken system.

🌟 Happy Thursday, everyone! 🌟 Just a quick update from me (and my husband, who’s here too—hello! 👋) as we take our morning walk. 🚶‍♀️🚶‍♂️ You can probably tell from the background that I’m still on base, but exciting news: we’re moving into our new house in December! 🏡 I cannot wait to get settled in and make it feel like home. I’ll be taking some time off to unpack and relax, so I might miss a few podcast episodes—but trust me, it’ll be worth it! 🎙️ Speaking of podcasts… • Tonight: I’ll be talking to a Veterans Affairs whistleblower who exposed critical issues at a VA Vet Center in Warwick, Rhode Island. You won’t want to miss this one! • Next week: I’m flying to Columbus, Ohio ✈️ to interview a leader from the Veterans Memorial and the president of Ohio State University! (And a bonus episode from a commander deployed on a warship). It’s a busy, busy couple of weeks between the podcast world and my work with the Public Affairs Program at Naval Construction Group Two. 💼⚓ Thank you all for your continued support—talk soon, and I hope you’re doing amazing! 💬💙 #LifeUpdate #PodcastLife #VeteransStories #PublicAffairs

Ok guys…I’m going there (because our nominated SecDef did!). Let’s get into it! Women in combat. So on the Shawn Ryan show Pete Hegseth says we ignored the “studies” that said it’s an epic failure to put us on the battlefield. Let’s take a page from More Perfect Union and have a civilized discussion why. I know we can do it! 🤞🤞🤞 Tell me with your data (or firsthand experience) why we don’t belong on the front lines, how the science was ignored during the Obama era, and if you believe in doing so, 𝗛𝗢𝗪 we’d roll back the clock and take these policies away. Oh and while we’re talking about it, check out this article from Franklin Annis who lost some friends over this scientific paper on the effects of gear not made for women in urban fighting environments. Ever heard of human sexual dimorphism? I sure had not until yesterday. When we are not ready to give women the proper protections in a fighting environment, how are they even ready? I’ll post the link 🔗 to his well-cited article. #womenincombat

In an effort to get real with you all, I’ve made a big decision: I’m stepping away from Botox and saying no to surgeries that promise to “fix” the bags under or over my eyes. I’m done with chasing perfection. Instead, I’m embracing the wild, frizzy hair that has a mind of its own, the lines that tell my story, and the face that’s authentically me. And you know what? It feels liberating. This is the new “normal” I’m choosing—showing up as I am, unapologetically. Maybe I’ll even let the gray come through because, honestly, aging is cool. It’s life, it’s experience, and it’s real. I’ve also realized I don’t trust plastic surgery. There’s a freedom in rejecting the idea that we need to be “fixed” to be beautiful. That’s where I’m at. Thanks for being here, and I hope you all enjoy your Saturday. Let’s celebrate being real.

Can U.S. military members truly exercise their First Amendment rights? What are the limits on free speech within the armed forces, and why do these boundaries exist? While everyone agrees on the importance of protecting operational security, how do we also encourage innovation and support those willing to step forward with bold ideas to solve complex challenges? In this episode, I sit down with Dr. Chase Spears, a former U.S. Army public affairs officer who recently completed his Ph.D. dissertation on the diminishing First Amendment protections for service members. We explore how this erosion came to be, the impact on military culture, and what Dr. Spears envisions as possible steps to strengthen both free speech and the effectiveness of our armed forces. About Dr. Chase Spears: Dr. Chase Spears retired in 2023 as a Major (Promotable) after a distinguished 20-year career in the U.S. Army, where he served in various critical roles, including Brigade Communication Director, Company Commander, and Public Affairs Training Advisor. His passion for civil-military relations and communication ethics has led to widespread publication in respected outlets such as The American Mind, Real Clear Defense, The Washington Post, and The Baltimore Sun. His insights also appear in academic book chapters for Army University Press and Routledge. Dr. Spears holds a Ph.D. in leadership communication from Kansas State University, where he focused his research on military norms, culture, and political influences. In 2024, he founded a coaching practice dedicated to helping leaders cultivate courage and lead with conviction. Connect with Dr. Chase Spears: Find Dr. Spears on X, LinkedIn, Substack, and YouTube at @drchasespears

“Why Mississippi?” “There’s a lot of crime there.” “This won’t be good for your career.” Sometimes, you have to tune out the well-meaning naysayers—the people who see the world through their own values, which might not align with yours. As I got older, I realized their opinions stopped holding the same weight. I began to see that my idea of a good life followed a different path, one I was shaping for myself. My keys to happiness? Having enough to stop working, finding ways to make a real impact, and being surrounded by people who see and appreciate the real you— people still standing through the hardest moments. Sometimes, I catch myself thinking, “How did this all happen?” Like, how did a video on social media—a moment that caused waves in the Navy—end up leading Harry and me to an even better place to retire? All I can say is, if you’re facing something difficult right now, it truly does get better. We need these tough times to cultivate gratitude for what we have today. They give us wisdom and a perspective on life you can’t find anywhere else. Today, I’m living out the vision I had years ago, when I first wrote a blog about saving money. I knew a different life was possible—a life that didn’t depend on climbing a career ladder or accumulating material things. Instead, my perfect life was rooted in family, friends, and a creative outlet that gives me purpose. And today, I’m lucky enough to live it.

On this Veteran’s Day, I pause to deeply honor all who made the ultimate sacrifice. Their courage and dedication have paved the way for those of us still serving, like me, for 28 years in the United States Navy. I often reflect on my officer journey—as this young, wide-eyed junior officer, uncertain of my place in a rigid system, yet driven by my determination and creativity. Back then, I was learning the ropes of my public affairs profession, still married to my ex-husband, still searching for how a quirky, fiercely independent spirit could belong in an institution that often values conformity over individuality. I took on the toughest assignments, each time pushing myself beyond what I thought I could do. And yet, I never quite fit the mold, never chased the accolades, and rarely received the awards (or even the greatest evaluations). For a long time, I thought this lack of validation might mean I was falling short. But now, I see those very differences are my strength. My ability to challenge norms and think independently is precisely what the system needs. I realize now that true service is about speaking up, even when it’s hard, even when it costs you. It’s about advocating for change from within, for standing up not only to serve but to question, to seek justice, and to honor the legacy of those who gave everything so we could have that freedom. As a public affairs officer, I know the power of truth, and I believe in asking the difficult questions—especially the ones that others may be too afraid to voice. Why do we send our young men and women into harm’s way? Are we, as a nation, truly informed and united in these decisions? These are the questions that keep trust in our institutions alive and strong. This is why I’m committed to using my voice, both on my podcast and in my life, to serve my community in a new way. Using the skills I’ve honed over nearly three decades, I want to help bring clarity, accountability, and hope. The courage to be different, to be unafraid of the truth, has become my purpose. Together, let’s be part of the solution.

Today we did our part and hopefully saved the life of this turtle. I ran over it first, but at least not with my tires. 🐢 My good deed cup is full for the day!!

Some of you might have noticed that I didn’t share my thoughts on the election. The reason is deeply personal: my mother recently wrote to me, sharing that she and my dad—both mostly homebound—are genuinely considering moving out of the country. It was a stark reminder of how deeply the current climate impacts each of us, in ways that often go unseen. Here’s the thing: my friends, my podcast listeners, and my colleagues represent a spectrum of political beliefs. Some of my closest friends hold views vastly different from my own. And that’s not only okay—it’s a powerful part of what makes us who we are. We’re one nation, one community, one team. For that reason, I choose not to make this moment about my views but to celebrate the remarkable freedom we have to hold different beliefs, to speak our minds, and to shape our own futures. I know that this is a privilege not everyone around the world can enjoy. Today, I feel grateful. Grateful to live in a democracy. Grateful for the chance to connect with each of you, sharing perspectives openly—even while I’m serving on active duty in the United States Navy. Thank you all for being part of this journey. Let’s continue to support and learn from each other.

“You take every job assuming it’s a good one. Yet, at any point, your intuition might signal that something has changed—whether it’s the organization, or you. Either way, only you can take charge of fixing your work and your life.” - Kate Goggin In this episode, we sit down with Kate Goggin, author of 10 Little Rules When Good Jobs Go Bad. Through her experiences, Kate has distilled powerful insights for anyone who feels stuck, frustrated, or unfulfilled in their career. This isn’t your typical career advice; it’s an honest, deep dive into how to recognize when a job has stopped working for you—and, more importantly, what to do about it. Kate’s book resonates with those who have found themselves in challenging roles, helping them to understand what they truly want from work and life. Join us as we unpack her ten transformative rules, each shaped by hard-won lessons that will empower you to regain control of your career and make meaningful changes. Kathleen (Kate) Goggin is a former federal spokesperson and certified technical writer with extensive experience consulting for clients in both private and public sectors. She has advised federal agencies including the U.S. State Department, the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, and the Federal Aviation Administration. A member of the Center for Plain Language and the Society for Technical Communication, Kate holds a degree in Communications Consulting from George Mason University. Her book, 10 Little Rules When Good Jobs Go Bad: Learn, Grow, and Reclaim Your Power at Work and in Life, is a guide for anyone ready to find fulfillment and balance in their professional life. Whether you’re questioning your career path or just feeling unmotivated, this episode offers practical advice on recognizing and overcoming those challenges. Kate’s insights will help you identify when it’s time to make a change—and how to do it thoughtfully. Tune in to discover how to reclaim your power at work and, ultimately, build a career that aligns with your life goals. #lifeskills #findyourself #findyourpurpose

I’ll take happiness over job prestige any day! Looking back on my 28-year naval career, it’s the roles that truly brought me joy that stand out. Here’s what they had in common: ✅ Realistic expectations and a genuine respect for everyone’s contributions ✅ Warm weather climates, preferably with a beach close by 🏖️ ✅ A slower, more intentional pace—far from big-city chaos and traffic ✅ Space to challenge the status quo, innovate, and build programs that make a lasting impact Because here’s the truth: if you’re stuck in a job—no matter the prestige, pay, or power—you’re still stuck. That feeling seeps into everything. It strains your family, dulls your creativity, and makes you question if you’re really adding value. I’ve been there. I know what it’s like to feel stifled, to have ideas brushed aside because they didn’t come from the top, to be part of an organization more focused on “staying on track” than making a difference. So I stepped away from the Navy’s “corporate ladder,” took a role two pay grades lower, and found a place where we’re creating projects that have real, tangible impact. Maybe the ladder didn’t want me, either—but here’s what I’ve learned: sometimes, life places you exactly where you need to be. Here’s to choosing joy, purpose, and impact over titles. #Reflections #CareerTruths #ChooseHappiness

Next week, we’re going to go there: when good jobs go bad! Who hasn’t been so excited to start that new position then find 🔎 it wasn’t what you thought? Or worse, be paralyzed with fear that you’ll never make the money you make now, won’t be able to feed your family and each day you walk into a soul-crushing grind? That’s the kind of tough topics we take on with the S.O.S. podcast. Kate Goggin will talk about the war within when we can’t let go but then the steps we can take to reclaim our power! Her writing is like poetry. I always love reading a piece of art. Feeling so lucky so many trust me with their story:)

As you close out your workweek, never forget we are stronger together! 🗽🇺🇸 We live in a country that lets us choose our destiny, where the entrepreneurial spirit reigns strong, and where our melting pot of people makes us mighty! Today, I watched a clip from Shawn Ryan that echoed the same story I have been telling you guys: We no longer believe in our traditional news channels, as they have shown us who they really are through deceptive editing techniques and outright lies. Instead, we now turn to “thought leaders” as trusted information and inspiration sources. Don’t let the silly political divisiveness get you down. Rather, let’s embrace the end of biased journalism, mis/disinformation, and the emergence of creators like myself, who have now become America’s most trusted news and information sources. I realize I’m here today with a more miniature (but hopefully mighty) podcast and a channel to express myself because people like Joe Rogan and Shawn who paved the way for smaller, independent creators like myself to have a voice! Sharing your story is the most powerful tool we have for self-expression. Do it often, as you become better because of it, and you not only help yourself, you help others know they are not alone. #GetSome #FridayMotivation

It always blows my mind who’s looking at my LinkedIn profile. There are people at the Pentagon communications offices, lawyers with the government, investigators, and people in the entertainment industry. And sometimes even communicators in the entertainment world! As I always say, I’m just a girl with a podcast! All I can say is thanks for stopping ✋ by! Hope you like my content and the stories of my guests. Don’t forget all you active duty, you can get a complimentary premium account on LinkedIn and also see who likes to spy! #ProTip 😉😉😉 #ISeeYou #FreeSpeech

In this episode, we’ll sit down with Julie Vida, a distinguished technology and business executive with a career that spans military service, high-impact roles in the public sector, and leadership in the tech industry. Currently, Julie leads the growth team for the Defense sector at ManTech, focusing on innovative solutions to secure the Department of Defense’s future. With past roles like Group Vice President & Chief Strategy Advisor for the Public Sector at Splunk and Executive Partner at Gartner, Julie brings deep insight into the intersection of data, analytics, and government operations. Julie shares her journey from her 24-year service in the U.S. Navy, where she served as both a Surface Warfare Officer and Naval Aviator, earning high honors like the Navy Air Medal for bravery in armed conflict during Operation Enduring Freedom. Transitioning from the military to the tech industry, she leveraged her expertise as the Navy’s Deputy Chief Information Officer, overseeing technology policy, investments, and cybersecurity. A passionate advocate for veterans and women in tech, Julie discusses her work mentoring transitioning military personnel and encouraging women and girls to pursue STEM careers. Tune in to hear her insights on leadership, resilience, and creating meaningful impact in both the public and private sectors experience.

When lives were on the line, some people are willing to risk it all. Reflecting on what makes a strong leader, I can’t help but think of Brett Crozier—a powerful example of courage and conviction. During the height of COVID, while experts warned of massive casualties, Crozier faced an impossible choice and put everything on the line to protect his crew. Years later, I asked if he had any regrets. His answer? It’s one every leader should hear.

Experience Navy Lodge life in Gulfport MS like never before! 🌊 We’ve been soaking up the sun and enjoying life on base while waiting for our house sale to go through. Take a look at our pictures for a glimpse into our life here. 📸🏞️ With good food, beautiful beaches, and a great working environment, there’s nothing not to love! 😍 Remember to count your blessings! 🙏

My next guest runs a property that helps our veterans in many ways and was recently granted new land to continue their mission. Not only that, but he also has a fighting spirit similar to mine, which infuses everything in his career. Meet Alan Yeck. Yeck is a former United States Marine, Special Intelligence Communications (MOS 2651—Company L, Marine Support Battalion, NSGA, Guantanamo Bay, and 1st Radio Battalion, Kaneohe, Marine Corpe Air Station), and Information Management Officer (IMO) with the U.S. Department of State, Foreign Service, Diplomatic Corps. Among his postings, he served three tours at the American Embassy in Beirut, Lebanon, during its 18-year civil war, the American Consulate in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, during Operation Desert Shield / Storm, “the original” Gulf War, and the American Consulate in Bogota, Columbia, during the FARC rebel conflict. More on Alan in first comment.

It’s alarming to think that active duty military members are denied the right to sue the government, essentially classifying them as second class citizens. This limitation has irreversible and devastating consequences for victims of military medical malpractice, defamation, sexual assault, and more. Civil courts play a crucial role in addressing such abuses. Navy SEAL and former BUDs Commanding Officer Capt. Bradley Geary’s is a similar situation in that his case highlights the issue of due process. Administrative investigations, rather than court martials, restrict his ability to litigate his case in a courtroom, lacking the same level of scrutiny. My recent S.O.S. podcast shed light on the risks associated with undergoing “routine” surgeries in military medical clinics. The lack of recourse if something goes wrong is concerning. It’s time for a change in this system. #MilitaryRights #CivilCourtsMatter

I’m proud to report that we received our pet expense reimbursement while moving Boxer dog Jayda from London to Gulfport, Mississippi. I am still waiting to hopefully receive the government-constructed cost (known as using a circuitous travel benefit) for what the Navy would have paid to fly me versus us boarding the Queen Mary. Perhaps our story will open the door to providing other options for moving pets from overseas. I’ll be sure to update my latest blog on this once my final liquidation is completed. Be the change when an option doesn’t exist. There are 27 dog breeds alone (not to mention cat breeds) qualifying as snub-nosed. They are prohibited from flying from June to September, which are the primary months for moving in the military. Military families should not have to shell out thousands of dollars in boarding expenses to fly outside of PCS season, and be lucky enough to find a trusted agent to ship their pets before or after the summer. They must be able to use all available resources! Even an Oceanliner. 🚢